Aderai: Our War is Defensive but Has Offensive Aspects in Southern Lebanon

Israeli Defense Forces spokesperson Avichai Aderai stated today, Thursday, that "our war is defensive but has offensive aspects in Southern Lebanon." He explained in an interview with "Al-Hurra" that "the northern front is the second front where we conduct offensive operations after Gaza." Aderai added, "The military leadership discussed plans for confrontation in Lebanon, approved them, and we await a decision from the political leadership." He stated, "Our current goal is to push Hezbollah away from our borders through our strikes against its leaders and interests." Aderai continued, "Hezbollah's actions are dragging Lebanon and the region into escalation, and it bears full responsibility for what is happening." He believes that "Hezbollah is using civilian areas and exploiting the civilian environment for military purposes." Aderai noted that "border towns in Southern Lebanon are empty of their residents due to Hezbollah's attacks." He remarked that "Israel did not choose war on the Lebanese border; it is Hezbollah that has driven it." He concluded by stating, "We are nearing the dismantling of the Rafah Brigade belonging to Hamas."